Marcus Rashford lays out transfer demands as Man Utd left with major dilemma

Marcus Rashford is holding out for football. The forward is set to return to following the end of his loan to , but will depart Old Trafford this summer and his future remains up in the air

after . The forward found a new lease of life under before .

as part of his loan deal. But, despite Emery apparently being keen to extend Rashford's stay, the United academy product's preference has been elsewhere.

And after defeat to the Red Devils at the weekend, the Villans failed to qualify for the . That would appear to kill any hope of Rashford being persuaded to sign permanently at Villa Park.

Marking the end of his first spell away from United, Rashford nevertheless expressed his gratitude to the club. He said on social media: "Just a message of thanks to everyone here at Villa for what has (injury aside) been an incredible few months for me.

READ MORE:

READ MORE:

"It is a really special club and I appreciated the way Villa fans embraced me with open arms from 1st minute on the pitch.

"Manager, team, and coaching staff have all been brilliant. I know it is a huge disappointment not to have made the Champions League place which everyone worked so hard all season for but I know this club and team will come back stronger."

With United keen to bring money into the club this summer, , they are now in a position where a quick deal for Rashford seems unlikely. The striker will hold out for a move that can offer a place in Europe's top competition.

Rashford is , over a transfer to a rival. The Catalan club's sporting director, Deco, has admitted that Barca are interested in Rashford and winger Luis Diaz this summer.

"We like Luis, we like Rashford, and we like other players," Deco told Catalan radio station RAC 1. "Out of respect, talking about players who are under contract with other clubs is complicated.

"When we go to the market, there are names we know that could improve the team."

and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our